SINGAPORE – May 14, 2025 – From May 15, commuters in Singapore will be able to use American Express (AMEX) cards to pay for bus and train rides, further expanding the range of contactless payment options available under the SimplyGo system.
The Land Transport Authority (LTA) and American Express jointly announced the rollout on May 13, describing it as a move to boost convenience and reduce the need for topping up stored-value cards.
Key Benefits for AMEX Cardholders
Here’s what commuters can look forward to:
- No pre-registration needed: Tap and ride immediately.
- Add AMEX cards to mobile wallets like Apple Pay, Google Pay, or Samsung Pay.
- Same fares as ez-link and NETS FlashPay: No additional fees.
- Track travel history and expenses using the SimplyGo app.
- Real-time fare notifications available through push alerts.
This means AMEX cardholders no longer need to carry or top up a separate travel card for their daily commute.
A Seamless and Smart Commute
Mr Marlin Brown, American Express Country Manager for Singapore, said:
“It is important for us to provide our card members with a seamless payment experience wherever they live, work and play, and enabling them to use their cards on public transportation worldwide is essential.”
This integration enhances the SimplyGo ecosystem, which already supports Mastercard, Visa, and NETS cards since its public launch in April 2019.
A Reminder for Multi-Card Users
LTA reminds commuters who carry multiple contactless cards (credit/debit or travel cards) to:
- Take out the intended card before tapping, and
- Use the same card to tap in and out of buses and MRT stations to avoid duplicate charges.
Timeline of Contactless Payment Integration in Singapore
| Year | Milestone |
| 2016 | Mastercard contactless pilot begins |
| 2019 (Apr) | SimplyGo launched with Mastercard |
| 2019 (Jun) | Visa cards accepted |
| 2019 (Nov) | NETS cards added |
| 2025 (May 15) | American Express cards accepted |
How to Start Using American Express on Public Transport
- Ensure your card is contactless-enabled.
- Add it to your mobile wallet (optional for digital payments).
- Tap in and out at MRT gantries or bus readers using the same card/device.
- Track trips on SimplyGo app (optional, for those who register).
Whether you’re commuting daily or just hopping on the train occasionally, the American Express public transport Singapore integration is a welcome addition for convenience, speed, and simplicity.
